By Mike Montague
5
1111 ratings
The podcast currently has 189 episodes available.
Prepare to meet Little Ginger, the charismatic co-founder of Culture Puppets, as he shares his delightful journey of using puppets to transform workplace culture. Little Ginger's insights reveal how puppets can add humor and surprise to mundane Zoom calls, creating engaging and interactive experiences that capture attention. Discover how these charming characters serve as a refreshing alternative to human hosts, minimizing Zoom fatigue and promoting active participation through their playful yet slightly challenging dynamics.
David Minze, the other co-founder, joins us as we explore the evolution of puppetry and comedy, uncovering how a simple gift of meeting Little Ginger turned into an essential part of corporate meetings and initiatives. Our conversation includes anecdotes about stand-up comedy backgrounds and personal connections, highlighting how creative passions can blossom into professional success. This narrative underscores the power of playfulness and creativity, illustrating how these elements can enhance both personal fulfillment and workplace environments.
We cap off our exploration of playfulness with a whimsical dive into voice impressions and the joys they bring. Discover the magic of keeping playfulness alive through celebrity impersonations and entertaining young audiences. Alongside Little Ginger's lively antics, we encourage listeners to embrace their playful side and incorporate fun into their professional lives. Be inspired to explore emotional resilience through humor and play, and don't miss out on our playful survey question about parking lot etiquette, featuring Little Ginger's lively dance moves.
(00:12) Culture Puppets
(12:40) Evolution of Puppetry and Comedy
(17:46) Embracing Emotional Resilience Through Play
(22:20) Playful Puppetry and Voice Impersonations
(31:14) Playful Encouragement and Funadvice
(00:12) Culture Puppets
Puppets in workplace culture and meetings can reduce Zoom fatigue and spark curiosity, creating a fun and effective environment.
(12:40) Evolution of Puppetry and Comedy
Little Ginger, a puppet, became a beloved character in meetings and events, showcasing the host's background in comedy and turning creativity into a career.
(17:46) Embracing Emotional Resilience Through Play
Embracing all emotions, resilience in challenging environments, humor and play, and fostering resilience in children.
(22:20) Playful Puppetry and Voice Impersonations
Puppetry, voice impressions, and turning passions into careers are discussed, along with a playful game segment and parking lot etiquette.
(31:14) Playful Encouragement and Funadvice
Embrace your playful side, take the Playful Humans quiz, and share the joyful message with others.
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Colin A. Borden brings his infectious enthusiasm and creative insights to our latest episode, sharing his unique journey through the entertainment world. From his spontaneous introduction to acting at a childhood play audition to gracing screens with his dynamic performances, Colin's story is a testament to the power of following one's passion. As a seasoned actor and director, he offers a lighthearted look at balancing a career in Hollywood while maintaining an unyielding sense of playfulness and creativity.
The conversation takes an intriguing turn as we chat about Colin's unconventional rise to fame through the popular YouTube series "Dhar Mann," and his experiences working on the sets of major productions like "Better Call Saul." With a special nod to family collaborations, Colin recounts the joy of co-creating "The Get Up Show," a morning podcast for kids that intertwines music, mindfulness, and laughter. His experiences highlight how online popularity can be a stepping stone to broader Hollywood horizons, offering insights into the evolving landscape for influencers in the entertainment industry.
We round off the episode by exploring the essence of playfulness in Colin's work, underscoring the significance of enjoying the creative process over seeking external affirmation. Whether it's producing a delightful children's show or adapting to the unique challenges of radio entertainment, Colin emphasizes the importance of living in the moment and embracing the whimsical side of life. We're inspired to chase joy and infuse a spark of fun into our daily routines, reminding us all to go out and play.
(00:13) Playful Humans Podcast With Colin Borden
(05:35) Navigating Playful Careers in Hollywood
(19:09) Silly and Playful Kids Podcast
(23:12) Creating Joy Through Playful Work
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Are you ready to be inspired by a story of resilience and boundless creativity? This week, we’re thrilled to have Aisha Makara, an extraordinary artist and world traveler, join us on the Playful Humans podcast. Aisha’s transformative journey from being an orphan in Russia to becoming a global artist is nothing short of remarkable. Her experiences navigating an unsupportive environment, moving to America, and daring to send her art to space icons like Elon Musk, Jeff Bezos, and Richard Branson will leave you in awe.
We dive into Aisha's "Joyful Living Guidebook," a unique blend of art and reflective questions designed to inspire a life filled with joy. She shares her background in engineering and how her entrepreneurial spirit and relentless curiosity have fueled her numerous adventures. Despite the challenges posed by COVID-19, Aisha’s dedication to her art and connecting with children led her to achieve the unimaginable—sending her artwork to the stars.
This heartfelt conversation also explores the importance of embracing struggles as a means to create freedom and pursue one's dreams. Aisha's story is a testament to the power of resilience and the simple, caring gestures that can make a world of difference. To wrap things up on a playful note, we encourage our listeners to embrace a playful and fulfilling lifestyle. Tune in, get motivated, and find out how you, too, can live joyfully and playfully. Namaste and go play for a living!
(00:13) Trailblazing Artist on Joyful Living
(13:55) Artistic Journey to Space Dreams
(23:13) Embracing Struggles to Create Freedom
(33:20) Playful Living and Embracing Difference
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Ever wonder what it’s like to be fired via telegram or how you could possibly win your wife in a radio station contest? Join my conversation with Randy Miller, the iconic radio personality who influenced my early career and became a cornerstone of Kansas City's airwaves. We reminisce about my debut during the "Last DJ on the Planet" contest, and Randy opens up about his initial spark for radio, ignited by Frank Murphy in Knoxville, Tennessee. With a career that began at just 15, Randy never looked back, choosing entertainment as a career and creating dynamic morning shows that left a lasting impact.
This episode isn't just about radio nostalgia. We also dive into his passion for spy thrillers and supporting our troops with National Defense Network and Celebrity Salutes. From the unpredictable nature of playful career transitions to his humorous on-air escapades that led to multiple firings, we discuss the importance of adaptability and seizing new opportunities. Lastly, hear how my journey took a patriotic turn with the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) and efforts to boost their public image through a nationally syndicated show. It’s a testament to the power of curiosity, creativity, and the courage to follow one's passion.
(00:12) Legacy of Radio Career
(14:51) Exploring Creativity and Career Transitions
(21:26) Radio Controversies and Military Appreciation
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Join us for a heartwarming and insightful conversation with Sarah Walkenbach from Freckle Face Foodie, where we reminisce about our school days together and uncover Sarah's journey into the world of food blogging. Starting with her early experiences in a bakery deli at 15, Sarah's passion for food quickly blossomed. Discover how she transitioned from making indulgent treats to crafting healthier recipes still bursting with flavor. Using methods like air frying and incorporating fresh herbs and aged kinds of vinegar, Sarah emphasizes a balanced approach to diet, focusing on moderation and ingredient quality. She also shares her philosophy on maintaining a healthy lifestyle with unique cocktail recipes prioritizing fresh, natural ingredients over sugary mixers.
Explore the essential kitchen tools and ingredients that make healthy cooking a breeze as Sarah highlights the versatility of a zester and the flavor-enhancing qualities of 505 green chili. The accessibility of recipes on the Freckle Face Foodie website is a testament to Sarah's dedication, with 95% of them being easy to make. We also touch on the realities and challenges of building a food blogging business, from the solitary nature of the work to the importance of consistency and accountability. Sarah shares the multifaceted skills required, from internet marketing to food photography and the struggle to maintain a social media presence. Don't miss this episode filled with practical tips, inspiring stories, and delicious ideas for a healthier, happier kitchen.
(00:13) What Makes a Healthy Recipe?
(09:07) Her Cooking and Culinary Journey
(19:22) Building a Food Blogging Business
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Ever wondered how to jump from a Target warehouse job to a full-time a creative career? This week, we sit down with R.Y. Givens, the innovative founder of Metamauic Entertainment, who shares his fascinating journey from the freedom and camaraderie of warehouse work to the structured confines of corporate life—and how it all led to his passion for video editing and storytelling. We reminisce about early career experiences, sprinkle in a laugh with a Tyrannosaurus Rex joke, and highlight how those pivotal moments shaped R.Y.'s path to success.
The conversation takes an inspiring turn as we discuss the growth process in sports and other endeavors, emphasizing that initial failures are stepping stones to greatness. I recount my own playful experimentation on the football field that helped me discover my talent as a receiver. We delve into the Dunning-Kruger effect, phases of confidence, and the evolution from youthful exuberance to reflective coaching roles. Our chat underscores the importance of curiosity and continuous learning, no matter where you are in your professional journey.
In another compelling segment, we explore how writing served as a transformative outlet for two individuals facing personal challenges. From overcoming dyslexia to navigating emotional hurdles, our guests share how their struggles fueled their creative pursuits, leading to published books and award-winning works. The chapter on freelance videography reveals the dynamic and flexible world of capturing sports events, while the finale encourages us all to rediscover playful creativity in adulthood. Tune in, get inspired, and don't forget to subscribe to keep the creative juices flowing!
(00:13) Creative Beginnings
(05:26) The Growth Process in Sports
(15:20) Exploring Creativity Through Writing
(27:22) Freelance Videography and Creativity
(32:22) Rediscovering Playful Creativity
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What happens when you mix Lego, business strategies, and playful creativity? Join us as we uncover the secrets with Tim Kroll, a seasoned business strategist and team-building expert who gained fame from season two of Lego Masters. Tim recounts his unique journey to the show, highlighting the special bond and collaborative spirit he shared with his son. Discover how Tim masterfully incorporates Lego into his workshops to break down barriers and nurture creativity, and learn how he teaches vital business concepts through engaging hands-on activities.
Ever felt like you don't fit into the cookie-cutter mold of traditional education? You're not alone! This episode dives deep into the value of individuality and the often restrictive nature of conventional schooling. Tim and I discuss how embracing unique problem-solving skills and adaptability can lead to more effective and innovative outcomes. Using metaphors like basketball plays and coat hangers, we illustrate how foundational principles can support dynamic, personalized strategies in life and work, encouraging you to balance structure with flexibility.
Transitioning from a secure corporate job to a creatively fulfilling career can be daunting, but Tim shares his journey that beautifully captures this emotional rollercoaster. We talk about the illusions of job security, especially highlighted during the pandemic, and the importance of following one's passion. Adding a playful twist, we engage in a fun game of "Survey Says" and share intriguing Lego trivia, all while emphasizing the balance between intentionality and fun. Tune in for a compelling conversation that champions the significance of serious play in achieving a purpose-driven and enjoyable life.
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Ready to hear how being playful can supercharge your creativity? Our latest episode features the incredibly versatile Juan Punchy Gonzalez, an artist, musician, and producer, who shares his unique take on living a creatively playful life. We warm things up with some light-hearted jokes before Punchy dives into his solo musical project, "Cosmic Punch," and the intricate production process behind the standout track "Woke." Expect a deep dive into the magical blend of voices and a nostalgic nod to Meatloaf's style, which makes this track a hit.
Ever wondered how to juggle paid studio work and passion projects? Punchy has walked that tightrope and lived to tell the tale. He shares his journey from a full recording studio setup to a more flexible project studio, emphasizing the need to adapt to industry changes. Punchy provides insightful strategies on using creative software to develop marketable skills and the benefits of working on larger projects. This episode is a goldmine of practical advice for aspiring musicians and producers on balancing multiple commitments and sustaining a successful creative career.
Peek behind the curtain of the metal music scene as Punchy reveals the disciplined lifestyles of metal musicians, contrasting their on-stage personas with their off-stage lives. Hear stories from life on tour and what it takes to avoid burnout while maintaining a professional approach. Whether you're a music enthusiast or a creative looking for inspiration, this episode is a celebration of creativity, authenticity, and the joy of playing for a living. Tune in for Punchy's captivating stories and wisdom, and ignite your own playful spark.
(00:13) Introducing Punchy
(15:16) Balancing Paid Work and Passion Projects
(21:25) Metal Music and Life on Tour
(30:40) Creative Advertisement and Positive Outlook
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Get ready to explore the world of stand up and improv with the multifaceted Steven Morgan! You'll be hooked from the get-go with our password-themed dad joke, before diving into the delightful juggle that Steven masters daily—balancing a conventional day job with his night-time escapades in stand-up comedy and improv. His financial stability doesn't chain down his creative charisma, allowing him to handpick only those projects that dance to the beat of his heart.
Steven recounts his adventurous leap into a new country and the new world of making others laugh. Eavesdrop on our chat as we peel back the curtain on the unpredictable thrills of live performance, the craft of comedy writing, and the epiphanies that come from embracing the winds of change. His approach isn't just about delivering punchlines; it's about discovering newfound freedom and opening doors to exhilarating opportunities.
The episode ends with a conversation around the dynamic energy exchange between a performer and their audience in the spontaneous world of improv comedy. We get real about the strategies that keep performances fresh and authentic, such as mixing with the crowd pre-show and vibing off an audience member's energy. Then a game of Survey Says, capping off a session brimming with insights on the essential role of playfulness in life. Join us for this playful episode that might just inspire you to sprinkle more joy into your daily grind!
(00:30) - Jokes of the Week with Steven Morgan
(11:53) - Embracing Change Through Comedy and Improv
(19:27) - Finding Balance Between Structure and Creativity
(22:57) - Connecting With Audience Through Improv
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Could the secret to peak performance lie in embracing imperfection and playfulness? Find out as I join forces with Jordana Confino in a revelatory discussion that promises to dismantle your drive for perfection and rewire your approach to success. Jordana, a former type A legal eagle turned positive psychology guru, shares her personal awakening to a life beyond the relentless pursuit of flawlessness. Her insights shed light on the often misunderstood relationship between play, productivity, and well-being. This episode is a treasure trove of strategies for anyone looking to infuse their life and work with a sense of joy and sustainable achievement.
Laugh along with us as we engage in a light-hearted game that exemplifies how play can transform the mundane into the extraordinary. Jordana's captivating anecdotes serve as a powerful testament to the idea that our inherent worthiness is not tied to our achievements. Together, we dissect the nuances of perfectionism and highlight the profound impact that letting go can have on creativity, client relationships, and presence in all aspects of life. If you're ready to break free from the chains of perfection and inject a dose of play into your daily routine, this heartwarming conversation is your starting point for a more fulfilling existence.
Find Jordana at https://www.jordanaconfino.com/
(00:13) From Perfectionist to Playful
Jordana's journey from perfectionism to playfulness, and the role of positive psychology in achieving balance and peak performance.
(13:10) Letting Go of Perfectionism for Success
Perfectionism, balance, and creativity are key to achieving long-term excellence in work and life.
(26:07) Navigating Perfectionism Through Play
Managing inner critic and perfectionism in work and play, recognizing worthiness, and turning tasks into games.
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The podcast currently has 189 episodes available.